During a seizure, clear nearby hazards, position safely on the side and time it; put nothing in the mouth
Move hard objects away, use a side position with the mouth downward and time the episode. Do not restrain the person, force the mouth open or insert anything; that can injure teeth and jaw. Call an ambulance for a seizure lasting over 5 minutes, another soon afterward, failure to wake or difficulty breathing afterward, an episode in water, or a first seizure. Offer water only when fully alert.
What it takes
Free.
What you may gain
Avoiding forced mouth-opening and inserted objects prevents tooth and jaw injury. Avoiding restraint prevents injuries such as fractures. A seizure exceeding 5 minutes requires emergency assistance.
Context & considerations
The same page also calls for emergency assistance after closely repeated seizures, failure to awaken or breathing difficulty, injury during the episode, a seizure in water or a first seizure. After movements stop, keep the person on their side with mouth downward and wait for full alertness before water. This is especially useful for families with epilepsy. The author notes that helping a stranger gives less direct personal benefit but cites China's Civil Code Article 184 protection; see entry 2.
Research & references
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. First Aid for Seizures: do not restrain movements, insert objects in the mouth or offer food/water before full alertness; time the seizure and seek immediate emergency care if it exceeds 5 minutes. The US source uses emergency number 911. https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/first-aid-for-seizures/index.html